Cultivate gratitude
By Jean Ricot Dormeus
A while ago, I started a gratitude journal and have experienced the benefits of writing down five things I am grateful for every day. I picked up the idea from the book, “Business Secrets from the Bible” by Rabbi Daniel Lapin and turned it into a habit. I channel my thoughts to count my blessings, see life through a positive lens and look for the silver lining in every situation. As a result, I enjoy greater levels of motivation and well-being.
Countless people have confirmed the value of gratitude as a life enhancer and a path to lofty achievements. Randy Paush, in his book, “The Last lecture”, mentioned how a student got accepted in her dream university even after a decision was made to turn down her application. A professor found a thank you letter in her file and determined that it was worth it to take a chance on her character and her habit of expressing gratitude.
McCullough, Emmons, and Tsang (2002) conducted 4 studies looking at psychological domains and gratitude. They found that gratitude reduces toxic aggression, frustration, and regret even after receiving negative feedback.
In a study of 800 descriptive trait words, “grateful” was rated in the top 4% in terms of likeability. Further, over 90% of American teens and adults indicated that expressing gratitude made them “extremely happy” or “somewhat happy”. A five-minute daily gratitude journal can increase long-term well-being by 10%.
Over two millennia ago, Epictetus said, “He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.” And Charles Dickens went one further saying, “Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every man has plenty; not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”
You will transform your life if you develop your gratitude muscle, especially if you are prone to complaining, criticizing or judging. Gratitude will provide you a springboard to reach the top in style. By all means, cultivate gratitude.
Jean Ricot Dormeus
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